About Us

About our Program

The Michiana Crime Stoppers program (formerly South Bend Area Crime Stoppers) began in May of 1983 after now retired South Bend Police Captain Ed Friend observed and was impressed by the program in Rockford, Illinois. The first Coordinator was Lt. Sam Walsh, who had the helm for 8 years.

A civilian volunteer Board of Directors was assembled and media connections were cultivated. "Crime of the Week" segments were, and continue to be, produced by WSBT, and WNDU on a rotational basis. These stations, along with WHME, WSJV, and ABC57 give generously to Crime Stoppers in the form of air time for the Crime of the Week segments.

Below is an early re-enactment under the direction of Lt. Sam Walsh (far right).

Upon Sam's retirement, Lt. Dave Shock took over as Coordinator. Dave is a local icon because he held that position for 16 years. When Dave retired, Lt. Cindy Kilgore stepped in and became not only a household name, but a local celebrity for the next 8 years. Below is a picture of an amazing rare opportunity that all four of the Crime Stoppers coordinators were able to be together at once!

Another important element in the media component is radio. Area radio stations also provide radio spots throughout the day, airing the Crime of the Week segments, produced by LeSea Broadcasting.

The trifecta in media support comes with the print media. Area newspapers publish the Crime of the Week cases, wanted persons, and help to advertise our program.

It's thanks to the partnership between law enforcement, the media, and the community, through donations of time, talent, money, and information that this program is a success.

Mission Statement

Crime Stoppers is comprised of dedicated community representatives, and a professional police coordinator. Crime Stoppers provides, along with the cooperation of the media, a method for local law enforcement to receive information on crimes. These efforts increase tips, which in turn increase felony arrests in our community.

Who is Involved

Name

Position

Detective Kayla Miller

Coordinator

Keith Benham

President

Carie Young

President Elect

Shanon Barnhart

Secretary

Emily Brady

Treasurer

Lindsay Miller

Past President

Amanda Bontrager

Board Member

Sharon Burden

Board Member

Favioli Cruz

Board Member

Howard Emmons

Board Member

Amy Hase

Board Member

Jason Kring

Board Member

Nathan Mort

Board Member

Rick VanVlasselaer

Board Member

Craig Whitfield

Board Member

Jon Zimney

Board Member

Detective Kayla Miller has been with the South Bend Police Department since 2012, but has been a police officer since 2005. Kayla previously worked with Indiana State Excise Police and Wabash County Sheriff's Departments and has held multiple roles with each of the agencies.